As an attorney, Carolyn Devries from New Way Lawyers frequently encounters distressed couples. Drawing from her experience, she offers us up some valuable relationship tips to nurture deeper connections. Amid life's chaos, prioritising presence is key to fostering understanding and intimacy. Explore strategies below to cultivate mindfulness in your relationship.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, maintaining presence in our relationships can often become challenging. Yet, it is this presence that fosters deeper connections, understanding, and intimacy between partners. Here are some strategies broken down into subheadings to help you stay present in your relationship.
Mindful Communication
Effective communication lies at the heart of any thriving relationship. Practicing mindfulness in communication involves actively listening to your partner without judgment or distraction. Instead of simply waiting for your turn to speak, focus on truly understanding their perspective and emotions. This can be achieved by maintaining eye contact, nodding in acknowledgment, and paraphrasing their thoughts to ensure clarity.
Quality Time
In today's fast-paced world, spending quality time together often takes a back seat. However, carving out dedicated time for each other is essential for staying present in the relationship. Schedule regular date nights or engage in activities that you both enjoy. Whether it's cooking a meal together, taking a leisurely stroll, or simply cuddling on the couch, prioritizing uninterrupted time strengthens your bond and keeps you engaged with one another.
Emotional Awareness
Being present in your relationship requires being attuned to your own emotions as well as those of your partner. Cultivate emotional awareness by regularly checking in with yourself and reflecting on your feelings. Similarly, encourage open expression of emotions within the relationship, creating a safe space for both partners to share their joys, fears, and concerns without fear of judgment. This fosters a deeper understanding of each other's inner worlds and promotes emotional intimacy.
Appreciation
Gratitude has the power to shift our focus from what's lacking to what we appreciate in our lives. Incorporate a daily gratitude practice into your relationship by expressing appreciation for each other's efforts, qualities, and presence. Whether through verbal affirmations, handwritten notes, or small gestures of kindness, acknowledging the positive aspects of your relationship fosters a sense of connection and reinforces your commitment to each other.
Digital Detox
In today's digital age, constant connectivity can hinder our ability to be present with our partners. Set boundaries around screen time and prioritize face-to-face interactions over virtual ones. Designate tech-free zones or times during the day where you solely focus on each other without distractions from phones, computers, or social media. This allows for deeper engagement and strengthens the emotional connection between partners.
Sharing Goals
Aligning your visions for the future can bring a sense of purpose and unity to your relationship. Engage in regular discussions about your shared goals, aspirations, and dreams, and actively work towards realising them together. Whether it's planning a holiday, saving for a home, or pursuing personal growth endeavours, having common objectives strengthens your bond and keeps you invested in each other's journey.
Carolyn runs her own Facebook group called Lunch with A Lawyer where you can ask family law questions for free. Carolyn also released a 7-part podcast 'Pathways Through the System' which explains the family court legal system. If you would like to contact New Way Lawyers directly, you can phone Carolyn for a free 20-minute consultation on (07) 3548 5890.